FEMA Provides Multiple Ways to Prove Home Ownership

San Juan, Puerto Rico — As part of the disaster assistance process, FEMA must determine ownership of damaged primary residences. In other words, you must prove to FEMA that the home you are reporting as having sustained damage due to Hurricane Fiona is in fact your property.

Home ownership is essential before providing Home Repair or Replacement Assistance.

FEMA is committed to ensuring equity in its program and services and has implemented steps to reduce access barriers experienced by underserved populations. The agency has expanded the types of documentation that could be submitted to verify ownership.

Traditionally, FEMA verifies ownership through inspection, automated public and government records or submitted documents such as deed or title, mortgage payment booklet, property tax receipt or property tax bill or real property structure insurance, among others.

Additional forms of documentation that FEMA will consider now, include:

• A public official’s letter

• Receipts for major repairs or maintenance dated within five years prior to the disaster.

• Survivors with heirship properties who do not have the traditional documentation of ownership verification may self-certify ownership as a last resort

• Documentation can now be dated within one year prior to the disaster or within the 18-month period of assistance

People affected by the hurricane in the 78 municipalities of Puerto Rico may apply for assistance by downloading the FEMA app, online at DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling 1-800-621-3362. People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, must provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

kimberly.keblish Thu, 10/13/2022 - 15:19

Biden-Harris Administration Awards $33 Million in National Dam Safety Grants Over The Next Five Years, $733 Million Will Be Awarded to Rehabilitate Dams Nationwide  

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA announced that its High Hazard Potential Dam Grant and the National Dam Safety State Assistance Grant programs awarded $33 million in fiscal year 2022 grants to 49 states and one territory for non-federal dams.

This includes $15 million through President Joeseph R. Biden, Jr.’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  The funding will provide technical, planning, design and construction grants for rehabilitating eligible high-hazard potential dams.

“Dams not only provide vital infrastructure to protect our nation from flooding events, but they also support the economic development of communities nationwide by creating jobs and increasing recreational opportunities for local areas,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “The critical funding provided by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help to rehabilitate our nation’s dams and make communities more resilient to climate change and extreme weather events.”

Over the next five years, FEMA will award $733 million through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in dam safety grants to states and territories to enhance dam safety and rehabilitate or remove aging dams, which will help strengthen the nation’s resilience, create good-paying jobs and help address the climate crisis.  Overall, FEMA programs are receiving $6.8 billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  

Studies have confirmed non-federal dams require significant rehabilitation. Dam failure can occur with little warning, and it is critical to take actions addressing dams that pose dangers to life and property.

Eligible non-federal dams are:

• Located in a state or territory with a dam safety program.
• Classified as ‘high hazard potential’ by the dam safety agency in the state or territory where the dam is located.
• Have an emergency action plan approved by the state or territorial dam safety agency.
• State or territorial dams, where the dam fails to meet minimum dam safety standards of the state or territory and poses an unacceptable risk to the public.

Approximately $22 million of the $33 million being awarded is through the FEMA High Hazard Potential Dam Grant program, in which eligible applicants are limited to states that have a state dam safety program authorized by state legislation. Funding will provide technical, planning, design and construction assistance grants for rehabilitating eligible high-hazard potential dams across 18 states and Puerto Rico.  With nearly $11 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding, this year’s funding almost doubles the $12 million awarded in the previous grant cycle. These funds were awarded to California, Georgia, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma and Oregon for construction ready activities for dams.   

The other approximately $11 million, including $4 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds, is available through the National Dam Safety State Assistance Grant Program to establish and maintain effective state programs that ensure dam safety and protect human life and property.  Every state with a dam safety program and Puerto Rico will benefit from this funding.

In a state or territory with an enacted dam safety program, the state administrative agency or an equivalent state agency is eligible to apply. Each eligible state may submit only one grant application.

More information is available on fema.gov.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 10/13/2022 - 13:59

FEMA Seeking Applicants to Join Hurricane Fiona Recovery Team

San Juan, Puerto Rico – FEMA is hiring Puerto Rico residents to assist with disaster response and recovery efforts as temporary employees. Hiring local temporary staff allows FEMA to diversify the workforce while affording opportunities for the residents of Puerto Rico.

Jobs are available for Applicant Services Program Specialists (island-wide), Voluntary Agency Liaison Specialists (island-wide), and Information Management Managers (San Juan area) to address community recovery management needs.

Potential applicants can apply for the following positions:

• Local Hire (Applicant Services Program Specialist) is open and posted to USAJOBS - Job Announcement. The job posting is open until October 20th, or until 100 resumes have been received. 

• Local Hire (Voluntary Agency Liaison Specialist) is open and posted to USAJOBS - Job Announcement. The job posting is open until October 21st, or until 100 resumes have been received.

• Local Hire (Information Management Reports & Planning Manager) is open and posted to USAJOBS - Job Announcement. The job posting is open until October 14th, or until 100 resumes have been received.

FEMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Salaries are comparable to local pay rates.

Most temporary local hires are employed through a streamlined hiring process. A local hire’s term of employment is 120 days, though it may be extended in 120-day increments. Visit the link above for additional information, including job responsibilities and compensation.

Conditions of Employment:

• You must be a U.S. citizen to be considered for this position.

• You must successfully pass a background investigation.

• Selective Service registration is required for males born after Dec. 31, 1959.

To see other FEMA career postings, visit fema.gov/careers

kimberly.keblish Thu, 10/13/2022 - 13:02

FEMA Announces Kelbie Kennedy to Serve as National Tribal Affairs Advocate

WASHINGTON -- Following the release of FEMA’s first-ever National Tribal Strategy, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that Kelbie Kennedy will serve as the agency’s National Tribal Affairs Advocate.

As the first tribal political appointee in FEMA history, Kennedy will advise the Administrator and the agency on Tribal Affairs, while working to ensure that FEMA lives up to its treaty and trust responsibilities to Tribal Nations.

“Tribal Nations and communities deserve to have their voices heard, especially when it comes to preparing for, responding to and recovering from disasters. I am confident that Ms. Kennedy will be a key advocate for Indian Country given her extensive experience representing their interests and priorities, as well as her lived experience as a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma,” said Administrator Criswell. “Ms. Kennedy has spent her career working on issues related to tribal emergency management and resilience, homeland security, and public safety. FEMA and the Biden-Harris Administration will benefit greatly from her compassion and competence.”

Prior to joining FEMA, Ms. Kennedy spent over four years working in Washington, D.C., for the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) as the Policy Manager and Policy Lead for National Security and Community Safety. In her role with NCAI, she worked on national policy issues surrounding tribal emergency management and resilience, tribal homeland security, tribal border issues, violence against American Indian and Alaska Native women, public safety and justice, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and international Indigenous rights. Ms. Kennedy was pivotal in the effort to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act earlier this year, which restored Tribal Nation’s criminal jurisdiction over certain crimes.

“I am honored to be the first tribal political appointee in FEMA history and will work hard to ensure that Tribal Nations and tribal sovereignty are at the forefront of our efforts,” said Kennedy, FEMA National Tribal Affairs Advocate and Citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. “Growing up on my Tribal Nation’s reservation in Southeastern Oklahoma, I learned firsthand that Tribal Nations are the first -- and many times the only -- line of defense when disaster strikes Indian Country. When Tribal Nations have the necessary resources and support they need, the entire community is better prepared and able to respond to disasters.”

“Kelbie’s commitment to Indian Country and all Tribal Nations is next to none. Over the course of her illustrious career, she has helped ensure that Tribal Nations have a seat at the table, and her appointment to serve as the first National Tribal Affairs Advocate is a continuation of that noble effort,” said Chief Gary Batton, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. “We are so proud of everything Kelbie has done and will continue to do on behalf of Indian Country, and we look forward to seeing her continued efforts to make sure that Indian Country is ready when disaster strikes.”

Kelbie Kennedy is a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and was born and raised on her Tribal Nation’s reservation in Southeast Oklahoma. She received her J.D. and certificate in American Indian Law from the University of Oklahoma, College of Law.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 10/12/2022 - 18:55

Please Remember to Use FEMA Funds Wisely

FRANKFORT, Ky. – With more than $76.5 million in grants approved by FEMA to help Kentuckians recover from the Eastern Kentucky flooding, the agency wants to remind survivors that these funds are to be used only for certain disaster-related expenses.

FEMA may confirm survivors spend money on basic home repairs, replacing essential household items or paying for somewhere to stay if they cannot return home. FEMA may send survivors letters that detail approved uses for grants, including:

• Repairs to make a home safe, sanitary, and fit to live in
• Rental assistance to temporarily pay for a place to stay
• Repair or replacement of a disaster-damaged essential vehicle
• Medical care for an injury caused by the disaster
• Replacing clothing, occupational tools and educational materials
• Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster

Federal law prohibits duplicating assistance from other sources, such as insurance.

If money is not used as described above, you may be asked to repay FEMA and you could become ineligible for further federal assistance that could become available.

Please do not use FEMA funds for travel, entertainment, regular living expenses, or any expenses not related to the disaster. Survivors should keep receipts for three years to show how they spent FEMA grants and document how disaster funds were used.

Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go online to disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Wed, 10/12/2022 - 18:55

FEMA Expands Disaster Aid to Additional Counties, Helps More Communities Recover from Severe Loss

WASHINGTON -- Homeowners in Brevard, Hendry, Monroe and Okeechobee counties are now eligible to apply for FEMA individual assistance. More than $268 million in federal disaster assistance has been approved for over 178,000 individuals and households to help jumpstart their recoveries. 

How FEMA is Helping Floridians

• FEMA has made individual assistance available to 24 counties in Florida. Residents in Brevard, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties are eligible to apply for individual assistance.
• FEMA is meeting survivors where they are to help jumpstart their recovery. Today, FEMA and state partners opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Volusia County. Along with Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists going door-to-door in Florida neighborhoods to help individuals register for assistance, survivors can visit one of the 11 Disaster Recovery Centers operating across the state. Centers are operating in Charlotte, Collier, Hardee, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Sarasota, Seminole and Volusia counties, with two centers in Lee County. More centers are planned to open in the coming days. Interpretation services and translated materials are available at these centers to help survivors communicate in the language they feel most comfortable. Disaster Recovery Center locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible. As centers are added, real-time locations will be updated at FloridaDisaster.org.
• FEMA will pay hotel and motel costs for eligible survivors. FEMA and the state of Florida activated the Transitional Shelter Assistance Program, which allows FEMA to make payments directly to participating hotels and motels in Alabama, Florida and Georgia that provide emergency shelter to survivors. As of today, the program is providing housing for 2,088 individuals and households.
• Hundreds of FEMA inspectors have performed over 39,000 home inspections for survivors who registered for federal disaster assistance.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved $20 million in low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters and business owners. Business Recovery Centers are located in Collier, DeSoto, Hillsborough, Lee and Seminole counties.
• As of Oct. 11, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has received more than 35,000 flood insurance claims and paid more than $33 million to policyholders, including $23.9 in advance payments.
• NFIP policyholders may receive up to $1,000 to reimburse the purchase of supplies like sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber. They may also receive up to $1,000 in storage expenses if they moved insured property. Policyholders should file a claim for flood loss avoidance reimbursement, regardless of if it was successful in preventing flood damage.

• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to eligible survivors. Floridians should file a claim for loss of income caused by Hurricane Ian by going to Disaster Unemployment Assistance - FloridaJobs.org and selecting “Apply for Hurricane Ian DUA,” visiting a local CareerSource Career Center, or calling  800-385-3920. Customer service representatives are available Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.
• Low-income Florida residents recovering from Hurricane Ian may be eligible for assistance from the Department of Agriculture’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Survivors can find more information on Florida’s D-SNAP program by visiting the Florida Department of Children and Families’ Hurricane Ian Response & Recovery website.
• Operation Blue Roof has installed 89 roofs in Lee and Charlotte counties. This is a free service provided to homeowners and is currently operating in Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Lee and Sarasota counties. Residents impacted by Hurricane Ian can sign up at BlueRoof.us or call toll-free at 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258) for more information. The call center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
• National Flood Insurance Program Florida policyholders who had flood damage from the hurricane now have a 90-day window to renew their policies. The extension applies to policies with renewal dates beginning Aug. 25 through Oct. 23. Policyholders whose policy renewal date is in this range should contact their agent or insurance company. FEMA also extended the proof of loss requirement for flood insurance policyholders in Florida who suffered flood damage from Hurricane Ian from 60 to 365 days.  For more information on how to file a flood insurance claim, visit How to Start Your Flood Insurance Claim.
• FEMA approved Critical Needs Assistance for disaster survivors with immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling. Immediate or critical needs are life-saving and life-sustaining items. This assistance is a one-time payment of $700 per household.
• If you or a member of your household uses adaptive or accessibility items that were damaged by Hurricane Ian, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance for those items. For homeowners, items can include an exterior ramp, grab bars and a paved pathway to the home’s entrance from a vehicle. Awards do not count toward your Housing Assistance or Personal Property maximum awards. For more information for homeowners and renters, visit Update to FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide. 

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 10/12/2022 - 17:38

FEMA Issues Public Notice for Florida

TALLAHASSEE – A public notice has been posted to the FEMA website describing available FEMA assistance and proposed FEMA-funded actions, including activities that may affect historic properties, threatened and endangered species, critical habitat, or wetlands and floodplains in Florida.

FEMA is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities via the agency’s Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grants programs.

The public notice addresses FEMA’s intention to reimburse eligible applicants for costs to repair replace facilities damaged by Hurricane Ian in designated counties.

The public notice is posted at: 4673-DR-FL-Public Notice 001.

This may be the only public notice given regarding these FEMA actions. Questions should be directed to FEMA Region 4 EHP at 3005 Chamblee Tucker Rd., Atlanta, GA 30341 or by email at FEMA-R4EHP-FLORIDA@fema.dhs.gov, within 30 days of this notice. Comments should include a subject line of “DR 4673-FL EHAD”.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 10/12/2022 - 16:28

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Volusia County

TALLAHASSEE – The State of Florida and FEMA have opened an additional Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Volusia County.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources available.

New Disaster Recovery Center

Center is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

VOLUSIA COUNTY

Volusia County Health Department, 1845 Holsonback Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32117

 

Other Disaster Recovery Centers

 

Other centers are operating in the following locations, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week unless otherwise stated:

CHARLOTTE COUNTY

Home Depot, 12621 S McCall Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33981

COLLIER COUNTY

Veterans Community Park, 1895 Veterans Park Drive, Naples, 34109

HARDEE COUNTY

Wauchula Civic Center, 515 Civic Center Dr., Wauchula, FL 33873

LEE COUNTY

Lakes Regional Library, 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers, FL 33919

Hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Fort Myers DMS Building, 2295 Victoria Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901

Hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

ORANGE COUNTY

Barnett Park, 4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808

OSCEOLA COUNTY

Hart Memorial Central Library, 211 E. Dakin Avenue, Kissimmee, FL 34741

POLK COUNTY

W.H. Stuart Center, 1702 S. Holland Pkwy, Bartow, FL 33830

SARASOTA COUNTY

Shannon Staub Public Library, 4675 Career Lane, North Port, FL 34289

SEMINOLE COUNTY

Seminole State College - Barbara Miller Automotive Center, 100 Weldon Blvd., Sanford, FL 32773

 

It is not necessary to visit a center to apply. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.

In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are canvassing neighborhoods in areas impacted by Hurricane Ian to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and answer questions about federal assistance. DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 10/12/2022 - 15:45

FEMA Individual Assistance, Public Assistance Approved for Additional Counties

TALLAHASSEE – Homeowners and renters in Brevard, Hendry, Monroe and Okeechobee counties are now eligible to apply for FEMA individual assistance under an amendment to the major disaster declaration for Florida after Hurricane Ian.

In addition, Glades and Okeechobee counties are approved for Public Assistance for debris removal and repair or replacement of disaster-damaged public facilities. They were previously approved for emergency protective services.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA app for smartphones or call 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

If you have homeowners, renters, or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 10/12/2022 - 12:10

FEMA Provides over $210 Million to Hurricane Ian Survivors

WASHINGTON -- More than $210 million in federal disaster assistance has been approved for over 128,000 individuals and households impacted by Hurricane Ian. FEMA is opening more Disaster Recovery Centers and going door-to-door to help survivors sign up for assistance in affected communities.  

How FEMA is Helping Floridians

• Residents in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties are eligible for individual assistance.
• Today, FEMA opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Polk and Seminole. Along with Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists going door-to-door in Florida neighborhoods, there are now ten centers operating across the state. Disaster Recovery Centers are in Charlotte, Collier, Hardee, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Sarasota and Seminole counties, with two centers operating in Lee County. More centers are planned to open over the next few days. Centers are for all survivors, regardless of citizenship status.
• As centers are added, real-time locations will be updated at FloridaDisaster.org.
• Translators or translation services are available at these centers to help you communicate in the language you feel most comfortable speaking in. Disaster Recovery Center locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible.
• FEMA will pay hotel and motel costs for eligible survivors. FEMA and the state of Florida activated the Transitional Shelter Assistance Program, which allows FEMA to make payments directly to participating hotels and motels in Alabama, Florida and Georgia that provide emergency shelter to survivors. As of today, the program is providing housing for more than 1,100 individuals.
• More than 700 FEMA inspectors have performed over 31,000 home inspections for survivors who registered for federal disaster assistance.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved $13.2 million in disaster loans to homeowners, renters and business owners.
• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is issuing advance payments to help Floridians jumpstart their recovery. To date, FEMA has paid more than $35 million to Florida policyholders.
• NFIP policyholders may receive up to $1,000 to reimburse the purchase of supplies like sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber. They may also receive up to $1,000 in storage expenses if they moved insured property. Policyholders should file a claim for flood loss avoidance reimbursement, regardless of if it was successful in preventing flood damage.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to eligible survivors. Floridians should file a claim for loss of income caused by Hurricane Ian by going to Disaster Unemployment Assistance - FloridaJobs.org and selecting “Apply for Hurricane Ian DUA,” visiting a local CareerSource Career Center, or calling 800-385-3920. Customer service representatives are available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.
• Thousands of federal staff are supporting Ian response efforts. This includes over a thousand staff from other federal agencies.
• Operation Blue Roof has installed 20 roofs in Lee and Charlotte counties. The operation began installing roofs over the weekend. This is a free service provided to homeowners and is currently operating in Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Lee and Sarasota counties. Residents impacted by Hurricane Ian can sign up at BlueRoof.us or call toll-free at 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258) for more information. The call center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
• National Flood Insurance Program Florida policyholders who had flood damage from the hurricane now have a 90-day window to renew their policies. The extension applies to policies with renewal dates beginning Aug. 25, through Oct. 23. Policyholders whose policy renewal date is in this range should contact their agent or insurance company. FEMA also extended the proof of loss requirement for flood insurance policyholders in Florida who suffered flood damage from Hurricane Ian from 60 to 365 days.  For more information on how to file a flood insurance claim, visit How to Start Your Flood Insurance Claim.
• FEMA approved Critical Needs Assistance for disaster survivors with immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling. Immediate or critical needs are life-saving and life-sustaining items. This assistance is a one-time payment of $700 per household.
• If you or a member of your household uses adaptive or accessibility items that were damaged by Hurricane Ian, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance for those items. For homeowners, items can include an exterior ramp, grab bars and a paved pathway to the home’s entrance from a vehicle. Awards do not count toward your Housing Assistance or Personal Property maximum awards. For more information for homeowners and renters, visit Update to FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide. 

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 10/11/2022 - 20:12

Additional Counties Approved for FEMA Public Assistance

TALLAHASSEE –Orange and Osceola counties are eligible for FEMA Public Assistance for the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged public facilities. Those counties were previously approved for debris removal and emergency protective measures.

Brevard County is now eligible for debris removal and repair or replacement of disaster-damaged public facilities. Brevard County was previously approved for emergency protective measures.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 10/11/2022 - 19:50

FEMA Awards Vermont More Than $1.8 Million for Highgate Slope Repair Project

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.8 million to the State of Vermont to reimburse the town of Highgate for the costs of a slope stabilization project along Transfer Station Road.

The $1,808,011 in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding will help address a landslide-prone area by excavating an estimated 17,810 cubic yards of subsoil and topsoil and flattening failing slide areas and transition areas.

The project will then use an estimated 27,320 cubic yards of stone fill to rebuild the slope, as well as install a drainage swale and stone key. Approximately 2.3 acres of land will be cleared and there will also be stream channel realignment and widening undertaken. FEMA had already provided some funding for preliminary surveying and design work.

The funding for the project is part of a pool of grant money provided to the state after Tropical Storm Irene in 2011. FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to state, local, tribal and territorial governments so they can develop hazard mitigation plans and rebuild in a way that reduces future disaster losses in their communities.

After a presidentially declared disaster, states receive HMGP money equal to a percentage of the total grants authorized under other FEMA assistance programs. The state then administers the HMGP grants locally, which can pay for projects that reduce flooding, or to elevate or even buy out flood-prone homes.

“Mitigation funding is a key part of FEMA’s mission,” said FEMA Region I Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Studies have demonstrated that for every dollar invested in mitigation, six dollars are saved in prevented losses. It’s always better to spend money to prevent a disaster than to pay for cleaning up afterward.”

adrien.urbani Tue, 10/11/2022 - 17:42

FEMA Awards More Than $11.6 Million to Lowell General Hospital for COVID Staffing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $11.6 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Lowell General Hospital for the costs of hiring additional staff to handle increased patient loads during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The hospital, part of the Tufts Medicine health system, will receive a $11,615,610 FEMA Public Assistance grant to reimburse the hospital for hiring temporary staff to work between December 2021 and March 2022.

A total of 122 personnel incurred 33,298.85 regular time hours and 14,404.73 overtime hours at Lowell General Hospital’s Main Campus and at Saints Campus.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Lowell General Hospital with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.3 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 10/11/2022 - 17:40

FEMA Awards More Than $2.2 Million to College of the Holy Cross for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2.2 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the College of the Holy Cross for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,217,533 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private Jesuit college in Worcester for the cost of contracting to administer 204,492 tests between July 2021 and April 2022 at an on-campus site that was open to the public. The school also purchased and distributed N95 masks and high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the College of the Holy Cross with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.3 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 10/11/2022 - 17:38

FEMA Awards Nearly $9.1 Million to City of Boston for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $9.1 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Boston Public Health Commission for the costs of providing testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $9,076,785 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the commission for contracting to provide 96,839 COVID tests between September 2020 and December 2021, as well as the cost of setting up a call center and providing outreach support.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Boston Public Health Commission with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.3 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 10/11/2022 - 17:36

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Crews Support Puerto Rico Communities after Fiona

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews from FEMA are going door-to-door, canvassing neighborhoods and helping Hurricane Fiona-impacted residents register for FEMA disaster assistance. DSA teams can also help survivors update their information and assist with referrals to voluntary agency partners.

To date, 24 DSA crews in Puerto Rico have registered more than 3,700 residents, updated nearly 1,200 cases and referred more than 2,600 survivors to voluntary agencies. Crew members are visiting homes, schools, nonprofits and communities with limited access. They are also meeting with local officials and community leaders to identify disaster-related issues and unmet needs.

“FEMA DSA crews are in the field and are canvassing some of Puerto Rico’s hardest hit communities,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Nancy Casper. “They are a critical part of our mission not only because they provide in-person support, but they help identify populations that have limited access to communications.”

During natural disasters, underserved and socially vulnerable communities tend to suffer the most because they face major challenges to prepare for and recover from a disaster. “FEMA will continue to ensure equitable access to our programs and services and will assist all survivors on their road to recovery,” FCO Casper added.

Meanwhile, the governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro R. Pierluisi, pointed out that the government is working together with federal agencies, including FEMA, for the island’s prompt recovery. “Like thousands of local government employees, there are thousands of Puerto Ricans working at FEMA, who left their families behind to work for our island’s recovery before, during and after hurricane Fiona. I urge everybody directly affected by Fiona to submit their claims and provide them the necessary information. Their work and commitment are extremely important for our most vulnerable communities.”

Many DSA crew members in Puerto Rico are also hurricane survivors and know firsthand what it is to be without power and water for an extended time. As they visit remote communities and speak with residents, FEMA responders may encounter people with immediate or unmet needs. In Barriada Marín, in Arroyo, DSA Crew Lead Julie Rivera met with survivors living in unhealthy conditions, some individuals were elderly with mobility disabilities and low vision. Rivera assisted residents of this community by assessing and understanding their needs and helping them update information in the disaster assistance portal. Rivera was also able to connect staff from local housing and family departments with residents of this community to provide additional assistance.

DSA crews never ask for a fee or accept money for disaster assistance or help filling out applications. DSA crews wear a FEMA identification badge with a photograph – a FEMA shirt, vest or jacket is not proof of identity. They may offer residents the opportunity to use a tablet to register for assistance or ask residents for permission to enter information on their behalf.

Residents are not required to share personal information unless they need a DSA specialist to help them with registration or answer specific questions about their application status. Residents are encouraged to ask for federal identification before providing any personal information.

People affected by the hurricane in the 78 municipalities of Puerto Rico don’t have to wait for a DSA crew to visit them. Survivors can also apply for assistance by downloading the FEMA app, online at DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling 1-800-621-3362. People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

kimberly.keblish Tue, 10/11/2022 - 13:58

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Canóvanas

San Juan, Puerto Rico — An additional Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is now open in Canóvanas. The joint DRC, a partnership between the municipality, the Government of Puerto Rico and FEMA, will help Hurricane Fiona survivors apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents needed for their application and answer questions in person.

All 21 FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will be open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are on hand at the DRC to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, businesses, private nonprofits and renters, and provide information about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

Services are provided in English and Spanish. If you need a reasonable accommodation or a sign language interpreter to communicate with FEMA, please send an email to FEMA- PRaccesible@fema.dhs.gov. You can also call 1-833-285-7448, press 2 for Spanish.

The additional center is located at:

• Centro Comunal Eugenio Walker, Calle 10, Monte Verde, Barrio San Isidro, Canóvanas, PR, 00729

All DRCs have Hazard Mitigation Community Education Outreach Specialists on site to support and provide guidance to visiting survivors.

To find the DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: Fema.gov/drc.

Additional DRC locations in Puerto Rico are:

• Centro de Bellas Artes de Caguas, Calle Padial, Esquina Calle Ruiz Belvis, Caguas, PR 00725

• Cancha de Baloncesto Reinaldo Lugo, Calle Desengaño, Barrio Colombia, Mayagüez, PR 00680

• Estadio Pedro Montañez, Carretera Núm. 14, Km 69.7, Calle Matías Soto, Barriada San Cristóbal, Cayey, PR 00736

• Centro Comunal Los Naranjos, Comunidad Los Naranjos, Calle 2, Barrio Cabo Caribe, Vega Baja, PR 00693

• Centro de Usos Múltiples Francisco “Pancho” Robledo, Ave. Padre Severo Ferrer Santa Isabel, PR 00757

• Polideportivo Francisco “Frankie” Colón Alers, Ave. Los Caobos Final, Ponce, PR 00716

• Centro de Recepciones y Bellas Artes, Sala de Recepción, Ramal 152, Ave. José Zayas Green, Barrio Barrancas, Barranquitas, PR 00794

• Cancha de Balonmano Néstor Milete Echevarría, Carr. 3, Río Grande PR, 00745

• Centro de Convenciones de Cabo Rojo Dr. Ramón Emeterio Betances y Alacán, PR-100, Cabo Rojo, 00623

• Centro Comunal Justo Concepción, Carr. 486, Km 2.2, Barrio Zanjas, Camuy, PR 00627

• Cancha Juanito Cabello, Calle Ramón Baldorioty de Castro, PR-173, Cidra, PR 00739

• Centro de Entrenamiento y Formación del Volleyball David Cuevas, Carr. 111, Ave. Los Patriotas, Barrio Pueblo, Lares, PR 00669

• Cancha Juan E. Lluch, PR 315 km 0.9, Lajas, PR 00667

• Centro Bellas Artes Ceferino Caro Ramos, Calle Unión, Rincón, PR 00677

• Biblioteca Municipal de Salinas, Calle Dr. Santos P. Amadeo, Casco Urbano, Salinas, PR 00751

• Casa Alcaldía (1er Piso), Calle Georgetti #35, Barceloneta, PR 00617

• Centro de Recepciones Luis Ángel Ortiz Hernández, Ave. Luis Muñoz Marín, PR-155 Orocovis, PR 00720

• Centro de Usos Múltiples Néstor Vázquez, Terminal de Carros Públicos, 38 Calle Terminal, Patillas, PR 00723

• Coliseo Roberto Clemente Walker, Ave. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, San Juan, PR 00920

• Estadio Municipal Mario “Ñato” Ramírez, Ave. Blvd Jimmy Negrón Palma Real, Yauco, PR 00698

 

You may also register for assistance with FEMA through your smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:

• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov

• By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

kimberly.keblish Tue, 10/11/2022 - 13:27

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Polk and Seminole Counties

TALLAHASSEE – The State of Florida and FEMA have opened additional Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Polk and Seminole counties.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources available.

New Disaster Recovery Centers

Centers are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

POLK COUNTY

W.H. Stuart Center, 1702 S. Holland Pkwy, Bartow, FL 33830

SEMINOLE COUNTY

Seminole State College - Barbara Miller Automotive Center, 100 Weldon Blvd., Sanford, FL 32773

Other Disaster Recovery Centers

All centers are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

CHARLOTTE COUNTY

Home Depot, 12621 S McCall Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33981

COLLIER COUNTY

Veterans Community Park, 1895 Veterans Park Drive, Naples, 34109

HARDEE COUNTY

Wauchula Civic Center, 515 Civic Center Dr., Wauchula, FL 33873

LEE COUNTY

Lakes Regional Library, 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers, FL 33919

Fort Myers DMS Building, 2295 Victoria Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901

ORANGE COUNTY

Barnett Park, 4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808

OSCEOLA COUNTY

Hart Memorial Central Library, 211 E. Dakin Avenue, Kissimmee, FL 34741

SARASOTA COUNTY

Shannon Staub Public Library, 4675 Career Lane, North Port, FL 34289

 

 

It is not necessary to visit a center to apply. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

 

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.

 

In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are canvassing neighborhoods in areas impacted by Hurricane Ian to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and answer questions about federal assistance. DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

 

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 10/11/2022 - 11:33

FEMA Helps Hurricane Ian Survivors Jumpstart Their Recovery

WASHINGTON -- More than $190 million in federal disaster assistance has been approved for over 127,000 households damaged by Hurricane Ian. FEMA and its state partners are opening more Disaster Recovery Centers, while hundreds of Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) specialists are going door-to-door to help survivors sign up for assistance in affected communities.

How FEMA is helping Floridians

• Residents in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties are eligible for individual assistance.
• Today, FEMA opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Hardee County. Along with DSA specialists going door-to-door in Florida neighborhoods, there are now eight centers operating across the state. Disaster Recovery Centers are in Charlotte, Collier, Hardee, Orange, Osceola and Sarasota counties, with two centers operating in Lee County. More centers are planned to open over the next few days. Centers are accessible offices staffed by state, federal and volunteer organizations that let everyone access recovery information. As centers are added, real-time locations will be updated at FloridaDisaster.org.
• FEMA will pay hotel and motel costs for eligible survivors. FEMA and the state of Florida activated the Transitional Shelter Assistance Program, which allows FEMA to make payments directly to participating hotels and motels in Alabama, Florida and Georgia that provide emergency shelter to survivors. As of today, the program is providing housing for 350 households.
• More than 700 FEMA inspectors have performed over 24,000 home inspections for survivors who registered for federal disaster assistance.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved $13.2 million in disaster loans to homeowners, renters and business owners.
• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is issuing advance payments to help Floridians jumpstart their recovery. To date, FEMA has paid more than $17.5 million to Florida policyholders.
• NFIP policyholders may receive up to $1,000 to reimburse the purchase of supplies like sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber. They may also receive up to $1,000 in storage expenses if they moved insured property. Policyholders should file a claim for flood loss avoidance reimbursement, regardless of if it was successful in preventing flood damage.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to eligible survivors. Floridians should file a claim for loss of income caused by Hurricane Ian by going to Disaster Unemployment Assistance - FloridaJobs.org and selecting "Apply for Hurricane Ian DUA," visiting a local CareerSource Career Center, or calling 800-385-3920. Customer service representatives are available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.
• Thousands of federal staff are supporting Ian response efforts. This includes over 1,000 staff from other federal agencies.
• Operation Blue Roof is processing thousands of requests for temporary roof installations. The operation began installing roofs over the weekend. This is a free service provided to homeowners and is currently operating in Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Lee and Sarasota counties. Residents impacted by Hurricane Ian can sign up at BlueRoof.us or call toll-free at 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258) for more information. The call center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
• National Flood Insurance Program Florida policyholders who had flood damage from the hurricane now have a 90-day window to renew their policies. The extension applies to policies with renewal dates beginning Aug. 25 through Oct. 23. Policyholders whose policy renewal date is in this range should contact their agent or insurance company. FEMA also extended the proof of loss requirement for flood insurance policyholders in Florida who suffered flood damage from Hurricane Ian from 60 to 365 days. For more information on how to file a flood insurance claim, visit How to Start Your Flood Insurance Claim.
• FEMA approved Critical Needs Assistance for disaster survivors with immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling. Immediate or critical needs are life-saving and life-sustaining items. This assistance is a one-time payment of $700 per household.
• If you or a member of your household uses adaptive or accessibility items that were damaged by Hurricane Ian, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance for those items. For homeowners, items can include an exterior ramp, grab bars and a paved pathway to the home’s entrance from a vehicle. Awards do not count toward your Housing Assistance or Personal Property maximum awards. For more information for homeowners and renters, visit Update to FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide.

mashana.davis Mon, 10/10/2022 - 18:16

It’s Important to Submit an SBA Loan Application

TALLAHASSEE – FEMA may refer survivors of Hurricane Ian to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) with information on how to apply for a disaster loan. Homeowners, renters, business owners and certain nonprofits may be eligible. It’s important to submit the loan application as soon as possible.

If your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept an SBA loan but failure to return the application may disqualify you from other possible financial assistance from FEMA and State of Florida. 

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. SBA offers long-term, low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters. 

SBA disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other resources. Survivors should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application. They may discover they were underinsured for the deductible, labor and materials required to repair or replace their home. 

You may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ or by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. Paper applications may be requested by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services or send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. There is no cost to apply for an SBA disaster loan. 

SBA disaster loan specialists are available to speak with homeowners and renters at all Florida Disaster Recovery Centers, which are open seven days a week from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $200,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $40,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 10/10/2022 - 14:47